Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 25 March 2025
601. Deputy Ryan O'Meara asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if his Department will be involved in the development of planning guidelines for solar farms, given the potential impact these developments may have on agricultural lands; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13359/25]
View answerAs part of the Programme for Government, this Government has committed to introducing planning guidelines for solar farms and to provide certainty in the development of solar energy in agriculture. While issues regarding planning fall under the remit of the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, my Department will input into the development of these guidelines due to the potential impact on agricultural land.
The Department supports the production of indigenous renewable energy, with on-farm renewable energy generation activities offering farm diversification opportunities which can contribute in a positive way to the decarbonisation of the energy system. However, it is important that food production is not negatively impacted by the development of solar farms and Ireland continues to be a world leader in the production of sustainable agri-food produce.
